My Ears are Still Ringing

The last few weeks have been difficult ones in the world of World Wide Murman. But that said, nothing can take away from the experience of this past Tuesday evening with my son.

This particular evening had been anticipated for some time. The excitement grew from the time the tickets were purchased. You see, my boy's favorite band was coming to Vancouver. I have always been proud of my son's musical taste. Long ago he didn't succumb to the sounds of Hip Hop Hell or whatever the flavor of the year happened to be, but he discovered my collection of Led Zeppelin and AC/DC. From there he discovered Iron Maiden and they became his genre of choice.

Never has a father been so proud.

Fast forward to last Tuesday. Anytime with my son is valued time. Going to a rock concert with him is always special. As we walked to the Pacific Coliseum fans and concert goers of every age and description made their way to the doors. I could see the look on Ben's face. He was really looking forward to finally seeing Bruce and the rest of Maiden perform. An excited Metal Head saw the two of us walking toward the door.

He smiles and says to me in a rock concert sort of voice- "Dude you're taking your boy to Maiden!,,,,,,, You Rock Dad"

I was suddenly filled with pride, thinking for a brief moment that I was indeed a "cool Dad" and one that could share the power rock of Maiden with his 15 year old.

Then god love him, Ben says to me in his sarcastic funny voice of his "It's more like I am taking you to Maiden don't you think Dad?!"

Well I was cool for a second anyway.

Inside the venue our seats were stage right, two rows from the floor and very close to the stage. Very good seats indeed. After an opening act and some snacks and drinks, the main event was about to begin. Ben looks at me and says he's got to go to the washroom. Off he darts up the stairs, when suddenly the house lights go down indicating the show is about to start. He's back in a flash. He doesn't want to miss a moment and decides he'll wait for the next two hours

Iron Maiden opens with "Ace's High", power chords fill the building. The spectacle has begun.

(Photo: courtesy of Richelle Akimow)

Maiden's animated and energetic singer/pilot Bruce Dickinson waves the Union Jack during his performance of "The Trooper" (Photo: courtesy of Richelle Akimow)

When the stage lights come up and the familiar chords of "Aces High" fill the building and with a flash of light Maiden takes the stage. I caught a glimpse of his face. The smile and his euphoric eyes said it all. It was a moment I shall never forget.

Mummified Eddie makes his appearance during 'Power Slave" (Photo:courtesy Richelle Akimow)

Maiden cranks out "Power Slave" to the masses. What a show! (Photo: courtesy of Richelle Akimow)

It was indeed a great performance. The set was incredible. The crowd was wild. The sound, well my ears are still ringing. It was among the top 3 concert experiences of my life and I was grateful to have shared such an experience with my son.

For more of Richelle's photos check out her Flickr page.